This is an interesting partnership, seeing as the 2017-18 season will be the 13th straight year of affiliation between the Capitals and the HERSHEY Bears.

Fans began asking questions when the Capitals posted a time lapse of the installation of the new ice sheet at Capital One Arena. One of the most prominently featured on-ice logos is for M&M’s®. According to Monumental’s press release, Mars will also advertise with signs on the home penalty box as well as inside and outside the arena bowl as part of a multi-year sponsorship agreement.

President of Business Operations for Monumental Sports and Entertainment Jim Van Stone issued a statement regarding the partnership. He said, “We are thrilled to partner with Mars Wrigley Confectionery to offer our fans delicious options when they come to a Capitals game. We are committed to ensuring that every aspect of our fans’ experience at Capital One Arena is exceptional, and we’re especially proud to partner with parent company Mars, Incorporated that also calls DC home.”

In addition to the Capitals, Monumental Sports and Entertainment owns and operates the Washington Wizards (NBA) who also play at Capital One Arena, indicating a potential partnership between Mars and the basketball team as well. The candy company also sponsors the Washington Nationals (MLB).

“This partnership is an authentic continuation of sports marketing for many years, and our long-standing commitment and support of WA, DC,” said William Clements, VP Sponsorships for Mars Wrigley Confectionery. “Mars Wrigley Confectionery is committed to the communities in which we work and call home, which makes this partnership a win-win for us.”